Outdated archaeological laws must be amended: Deputy Minister

By Shane Seneviratne   

More than 100-year-old archaeological regulations should be amended to address longstanding issues in Sri Lanka’s archaeological sector, Deputy Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Gamagedara Dissanayake said.  

Speaking at an event held at the University of Peradeniya to mark the 15th anniversary of its Department of Archaeology, the Deputy Minister stressed the urgent need to revise outdated legislation to suit present-day requirements. He assured his full cooperation to the Department in strengthening the regulatory framework to support archaeological research and preservation efforts.  

Dissanayake noted that the country’s historical narrative relies heavily on archaeological research and that antiquated regulations continue to hinder progress in the field.  The ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including University of Peradeniya Vice Chancellor Prof. Terrence Madhujith, Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Ranjith Pallegama, Director General of Archaeology Prof. Thusitha Mendis, Prof. Jagath Weerasinghe, Prof. Sama Nanayakkara, and Additional Secretary to the Ministry Sujeewa Palliyaguru.